Delighted Harrington savours place in history

7/20/2008

Padraig Harrington was delighted to regain possession of a "shinier" Claret Jug after winning The Open Championship in superb style on a windswept final day at Royal Birkdale.

Harrington carded a closing round of 69 for a three over total of 283, finishing four shots clear of Ryder Cup team-mate Ian Poulter to become the first European player to successfully defend the title since James Braid in 1906.

The 36 year old Irishman was doubtful before the start with an injury to his right wrist but put the result beyond doubt with birdies on the 13th and 15th and an eagle from just four feet on the 17th to seal a memorable triumph.

Harrington injured his wrist on Saturday and rated his prospects of completing the tournament at just 50-50, but felt the problem ended up working to his advantage.

Harrington's victory last year came despite a double bogey on the 72nd hole which would have cost him the title but for Sergio Garcia later bogeying the same hole.

Greg Norman, who finished in joint third place, was the story all weekend. The 53 year old’s feat in leading the event until the last nine holes will go down in history, but he did not want to deflect any praise from the Champion after finishing nine over par.

Leaderboard – Final:

1. Padraig Harrington             IRL  74 68 72 69 283 +3
2. Ian Poulter                       ENG  72 71 75 69 287 +7
3. Henrik Stenson                 SWE  76 72 70 71 289 +9
    Greg Norman                    AUS  70 70 72 77 289 +9
5. Jim Furyk                         USA  71 71 77 71 290 +10
    Chris Wood (am.)             ENG  75 70 73 72 290 +10
7. David Howell                     ENG  76 71 78 67 292 +12
    Robert Karlsson                SWE  75 73 75 69 292 +12
    Ernie Els                           SAF  80 69 74 69 292 +12
    Paul Casey                       ENG  78 71 73 70 292 +12
    Stephen Ames                  CAN  73 70 78 71 292 +12
    Steve Stricker                   USA  77 71 71 73 292 +12
    Robert Allenby                  AUS  69 73 76 74 292 +12
    Anthony Kim                     USA  72 74 71 75 292 +12
    Ben Curtis                        USA  78 69 70 75 292 +12
 

Source: European Tour